OSCE Mission praises National Minority Councils elections in Serbia

BELGRADE, 27 October 2014 - The Head of the OSCE Mission to Serbia, Ambassador Peter Burkhard, welcomed today the conduct of elections to the National Minority Councils as further evidence of Serbia’s support  and respect for the rights of all its citizens.

“It is encouraging to see the active participation of twenty minorities in these elections, also in south and south-west Serbia,” said Ambassador Burkhard. “The Councils represent a platform for promoting minorities’ distinct cultures, languages, education and media. The extent to which national minorities are integrated in society and included in socio-economic and political processes is one measure of the democratization and diversity of that society.”

Ambassador Burkhard also underlined that Serbia has demonstrated again its commitment to OSCE values.

At the same time, he expressed regret over the difficulties encountered in some polling stations which prevented voters to exercise their right to vote. 

“The OSCE Mission is committed to further supporting the functioning of the Councils in line with Serbian law,” said Ambassador Burkhard.

“We look forward to continued constructive co-operation with the forthcoming Councils.”